A Message From the Principal
A Message From the Principal
Greetings BMS Families,
As winter comes to a close, our students are truly enjoying the mild temperatures! It's been wonderful to see everyone outside during lunch, playing in the sunshine. This time outdoors not only provides a valuable break for students to socialize with their peers but also encourages more physical activity throughout the day. Regular exercise is an excellent way to reduce stress, especially for our middle school students. Here are some key points to consider on how we can use exercise to alleviate stress and boost academic success.
Physical activity can help students feel happier due to the endorphins released and increase energy levels. Specifically for our students, shooting some hoops or going for a walk can help them refocus and get energized.
Exercise is calming. When a person is focused on an exercise or sport, they are likely to stop focusing on their worries.
Exercise also increases self-confidence, especially for adolescents so they feel they have more control over their bodies which in turn increase their control over their school work.
Physical activity improves memory! Studies have shown that increased blood flow to the brain from exercise can help students remember more.
If your middle school student struggles to find time for exercise, consider ways your family can incorporate short bursts of activity together. You might even plan your workouts as a team!
We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to educate and collaborate with your students each day. Our teachers are dedicated to ensuring the success of every child, and we value your ongoing support. Please do not hesitate to contact us at Berlin Middle School if you need assistance. We're here to help!
Kind Regards,
Colleen Pariso
Principal
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• Tuesday, March 11 | Spaghetti Supper | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
• Monday, March 17 | BMS Bison Bonanza | 7:00 PM
• Thursday, March 20 | Parent Teacher Conferences | 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• March 20 - March 28 | No School | Spring Break
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Wisconsin Forward Exam
Berlin Middle School students will participate in the Wisconsin Forward Exam during the spring testing window. These state exams are mandated by both state law (Wis. Stat. § 118.30) and the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
Testing Schedule
The Wisconsin Forward Exam is scheduled from Monday, March 17 to Friday, April 25. The exam assesses the knowledge and skills that all students should have for their grade level in language arts and math. Additionally, 8th graders will be tested in science and social studies. One or more subtests may be administered each day within this timeframe. Students who are absent on testing days will be scheduled for a make-up test before the testing window closes.
Performance and Support
Attached is a brochure titled "Information for Families," available in both English and Spanish, which provides further details. Please note that students’ performance on this assessment will not impact their grades. However, we encourage you to motivate your child to perform to the best of their abilities. The results will assist school staff in making informed decisions regarding curriculum, placement, and support services.
Preparation for Testing
To ensure your child is prepared, please remind them to charge their Chromebooks each night. If they have earbuds or headphones that can connect to the computer, they may use those. Otherwise, earbuds/headphones will be provided. Note that students are not allowed to use wireless earbuds during state testing. Additionally, cell phones and smartwatches are prohibited in the testing room; students should leave these devices at home or store them in their lockers during testing.
Encouragement for Success
We want all students to excel on this exam, and your support is crucial. A nutritious breakfast and a good night’s sleep will help your child focus and perform at their best. We appreciate your support and cooperation.
If you have any questions, please contact Principal Colleen Pariso. Thank you!
Testing Dates:
April 9, 10, 11, 14, 15 & 16
April 17 - 19 (8th Grade Only)
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Parent Teacher Conferences
These essential meetings between parents and teachers offer a valuable opportunity to connect and discuss your child's academic progress, social development, overall performance in school, and much more! We look forward to seeing you!
Please click the link to register: CLICK HERE
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Project Lead the Way Department Receives Grant for Family STEAM Night
We are excited to share that the Project Lead the Way Department has received a generous grant from the Webster's Foundation! This support will enable us to host a Family STEAM Night, where families can explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) through hands-on activities and demonstrations.
Thanks to the grant, we will provide all necessary materials and a delicious dinner for attendees. This event is a fantastic chance for Berlin Middle School to promote STEAM education and encourage collaboration among parents and kids.
We look forward to seeing how this event will inspire creativity in our future innovators. Stay tuned for more details on how to join this enriching experience! A heartfelt thank you to the Webster's Grant Foundation for making this possible!
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BMS Performs for the 5th Graders
Recently, the beginning band and 8th grade choir from BMS put on a fantastic show for the 5th graders!
The fifth graders got a chance to explore the amazing individual instruments they could learn if they decide to join band as they transition to middle school. The BMS choir also amazed everyone with their ukuleles, showcasing another fun opportunity for musical growth.
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Yearbooks Available for Purchase
Don't miss out on this opportunity to secure your copy today!
Order Form: CLICK HERE
Please return order forms and payment to BMS secretary, Ms. Gretchen Chier. Thank you!
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8th Grade Parent Information Night
Did you miss the 8th Grade Parent Information Night? No problem!
Watch the Presentation: CLICK HERE
For more information regarding your incoming freshman, please CLICK HERE
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BASD Recertified as a Heart Safe School
Thanks to our partnership with Project ADAM (Automated Defibrillators in Adam’s Memory), we have successfully renewed our Heart Safe School status. This amazing program, run by Children’s Wisconsin and the Herma Heart Institute, is dedicated to preventing sudden cardiac death through a comprehensive plan. Here’s what we’re doing:
• Placing AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) in our school buildings.
• Forming a cardiac emergency response team.
• Conducting AED drills to prepare for emergencies.
• Educating our staff on how to recognize warning signs and implement prevention strategies.
AEDs are easy to use and allow anyone, even those without medical training, to provide quick defibrillation to individuals of all ages.
By empowering our schools and communities, Project ADAM not only saves lives but also boosts our readiness for sudden cardiac arrest situations. This initiative is a tribute to Adam Lemel, a 17-year-old who sadly lost his life while playing basketball at school. Project ADAM is making a difference in schools across the nation, reinforcing the cardiac chain of survival.
We extend our sincere appreciation to ThedaCare Orthopedics for their continuous support of our CPR/AED education program!
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March Breakfast Menu
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March Lunch Menu
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Community Events & Programs
Check out our Community Events & Programs page on our website! This page is dedicated to be a valuable resource for families and community members, providing access to information about local events and programs that are not directly affiliated with BASD.
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